Why Dismantling the FBI Could Be Crucial for Indigenous Sovereignty and Justice

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has long struggled with policies and practices that have, at times, undermined the safety, sovereignty, and justice of Indigenous communities. From heavy-handed surveillance of Native movements to systemic inaction in the face of corruption and criminal networks, the agency has too often fallen short of protecting the very communities it is meant to serve. With Kash Patel—a highly qualified leader known for his commitment to reform—poised to take the helm, there is an exciting opportunity to reshape the FBI into an institution that truly supports justice and self-determination.

Montana’s Drug Trafficking Crisis and Tribal Vulnerability

In Montana, drug trafficking routes have long threatened tribal lands, such as those near Fort Peck and Fort Belknap. Despite multiple witness testimonies, private investigations, and public reports highlighting the issue, persistent inattention and even complicity within federal ranks have allowed these networks to flourish. This ongoing crisis demonstrates the urgent need for law enforcement that is accountable and responsive to local communities. With Kash Patel leading the charge, the promise is to transform these operations by redirecting resources and oversight to better serve tribal nations.

Read more: Montana Drug Smuggling and FBI Complicity – Boyden Report

Surveillance and Infiltration of Native Movements

Historically, the FBI’s extensive surveillance tactics have targeted Indigenous-led movements—from environmental protests to sovereignty campaigns—fostering a culture of fear and mistrust. Tactics such as deploying drones, using undercover agents, and gathering intelligence through informants have disrupted peaceful advocacy and weakened the trust that binds Native communities together. Under new leadership, there is hope for a reformed approach—one that respects the rights of Indigenous peoples to organize, advocate for their causes, and protect their cultural heritage without the constant shadow of intrusive federal oversight. Learn more about: Anna Mae Aquash – Wikipedia

Read more: FBI sent several informants to Standing Rock protests, court documents show | Grist

A Fundamental Need for Change

The agency’s past missteps—ranging from its handling of drug trafficking investigations to its aggressive surveillance of Native movements—have underscored a systemic failure to support the communities it’s meant to protect. By rethinking its structure and operational priorities, there is a tremendous opportunity to correct these injustices and build an institution rooted in transparency, accountability, and cultural respect.

Building a Path Forward Without the FBI

Under a Trump administration and Kash Patel’s leadership, dismantling the FBI could offer meaningful change:

Empowering Tribal Governments in Law Enforcement: By reallocating resources from centralized federal control to locally administered law enforcement, tribal nations could develop their own strategies to combat crime and corruption, tailored to the unique needs of their communities.

Ending Invasive Federal Surveillance Practices: A reimagined FBI under Patel’s leadership would put an end to outdated monitoring tactics, allowing Indigenous movements to organize freely and confidently.

Providing Justice for Historical Wrongs: A renewed commitment to fairness and accountability means that past injustices can be re-examined and rectified, paving the way for a more equitable future.

Redirecting Funds to Community Programs: Resources currently earmarked for traditional FBI operations could be invested in education, healthcare, and infrastructure development on tribal lands, fostering long-term community resilience and growth.

Reclaiming Sovereignty and Justice

The need for change within the FBI is clear. Its historical practices have, at times, done more harm than good, leaving Indigenous communities vulnerable and underrepresented. With Kash Patel’s proven track record and dedication to reform, there is a real opportunity to realign the agency’s mission with the principles of justice, sovereignty, and community empowerment. A reformed FBI could serve as a catalyst for restoring trust, ending invasive surveillance practices, and ensuring that every citizen—especially those in tribal communities—receives the protection and respect they deserve.

For Indigenous communities across the nation, the prospect of a restructured FBI represents not just political change but a meaningful step toward justice, self-determination, and lasting safety. We urge our Senators to confirm Kash Patel as FBI Director under the Trump administration, paving the way for this critical transformation.